Description
Black Mountain Minnow (Tanichthys sp. – variant of White Cloud Mountain Minnow)
📌 Basic Info
Scientific Name: Tanichthys sp. (Black variant of Tanichthys albonubes)
Common Name: Black Mountain Minnow / Black White Cloud
Size: ~1.5 inches (4 cm)
Lifespan: 3 – 5 years
Tank Zone: Middle to top swimmers
🌊 Water Parameters
TDS (Total Dissolved Solids): 100 – 300 ppm
pH: 6.0 – 8.0
Temperature: 16°C – 24°C (61°F – 75°F) → Can tolerate cooler, unheated tanks
Water Type: Soft to moderately hard, very adaptable
🐟 Characteristics
Striking dark/black body with subtle iridescent lines and reddish fins
Hardy, peaceful schooling fish ideal for community aquariums
Active swimmers that do best in groups
Rare and unique compared to the standard White Cloud variant
🍽️ Food
Type: Omnivorous
Diet: Flakes, micro-pellets, crushed granules, frozen/live foods (daphnia, brine shrimp, mosquito larvae)
Feeding Frequency: 1–2 times daily in small amounts
🛠️ Maintenance
Weekly water change: 20–30%
Can thrive in unheated aquariums at room temperature
Provide plants, rocks, and open swimming areas
Very hardy and low-maintenance → great for beginners
👥 Social Behavior
Minimum Group Size: 6 (better in 10+)
Tank Mates: Peaceful fish – danios, rasboras, guppies, shrimp, snails
Avoid: Large/aggressive fish like cichlids or fin-nippers
✅ Do’s
Keep in schools for healthy, natural behavior
Use planted aquariums or floating plants for security
Great choice for cool-water setups without heaters
❌ Don’ts
Don’t keep them alone or in pairs → they stress easily
Don’t add aggressive or predatory fish
Don’t overheat → temps above 26°C stress them
⭐ Quick Tips
A rare and striking dark variant of the White Cloud Mountain Minnow. Hardy, peaceful, and perfect for unheated or community aquariums. Excellent for both beginners and collectors.
